VIRGINIA BEACH — Salem High School was locked down Thursday morning after a male student suffered from a fatal “medical issue,” officials say.
A cardiac arrest call was received at 8:10 a.m., according to Tonya Pierce, a spokesperson for Virginia Beach police.
Shortly before 11 a.m., Pierce said police were investigating a death at the school. Police are not suspecting foul play or seeking a person of interest, she said.
The lockdown went into effect after 9 a.m. this morning and the Virginia Beach Police Department was called to the school to respond to the medical issue, said Virginia Beach City Public Schools spokesperson Eileen Cox.
Virginia Beach police’s forensic services unit was at the school. A Southside Daily reporter also observed someone identifying herself as “crisis response” arrive at the school.
Parents were notified of the lockdown around 9:12 a.m. via email and a phone call alert system put in place by VBCPS, Cox said.
Another alert was sent to parents after 11 a.m. that read:
Good morning, Salem High School parents.
“This is Principal Matt Delany calling with an update to today’s external lockdown. I want to let you know that police are investigating the death of an individual student at our school. Officers tell us that no foul play is suspected and police are not looking for a suspect. While the external lockdown continues, we are making plans for an early dismissal for all students at 12 p.m.today. Students will be offered a bag lunch as they exit the building. Bus transportation will be provided and dismissal will occur as usual. There is no need for parents to pick their children up at the school, unless this is your typical practice. In addition, all afterschool activities here at Salem High School are cancelled today. I appreciate your continued patience and understanding. This is a sad day for our Salem community. Please know that counselors are at the school now and will continue to be available in the days ahead. Thank you.”
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